HOTEL K5
why
A Hotel that Acts as a Conduit Across Time, Space, and Generations.
In a world inundated with stimuli, our yearning for transformative experiences persists—an era of perpetual renewal. Amidst the deluge of excess, it is imperative to safeguard the irreplaceable amidst the transient trends, anchoring ourselves in the accumulated wisdom of the past rather than the nebulous promises of tomorrow. While novelty may seem elusive, uniqueness endures.
K5, a boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Japan, is a testament to this ethos. Born from deep contemplation of space and heritage, it weaves a narrative that spans centuries—immersing itself in the rich tapestry of Kabuto-cho's medieval origins and contemporary allure. Transforming a century-old bank building into a hub of urban rejuvenation, K5 envisions a space where travelers and locals coalesce, driven not solely by profit, but by a shared sense of community. Of particular intrigue is the hotel's commitment to engaging the younger generation, ensuring that its legacy transcends the confines of the past. Through a fusion of traditional Japanese aesthetics and Nordic design principles, K5 breathes new life into its surroundings, offering a fresh perspective on cultural exchange. Within its intimate confines, diverse commercial spaces coexist, including the world's inaugural Brooklyn Brewery flagship store, a curated book and alcohol bar, and Switch Coffee—a beloved local haunt. K5's journey, though fraught with challenges, has catalyzed growth and resilience. Emerging from the crucible of adversity, it stands poised to welcome a global audience, beckoning travelers to partake in its narrative—a convergence of time, place, and generation.
K5, a boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Japan, is a testament to this ethos. Born from deep contemplation of space and heritage, it weaves a narrative that spans centuries—immersing itself in the rich tapestry of Kabuto-cho's medieval origins and contemporary allure. Transforming a century-old bank building into a hub of urban rejuvenation, K5 envisions a space where travelers and locals coalesce, driven not solely by profit, but by a shared sense of community. Of particular intrigue is the hotel's commitment to engaging the younger generation, ensuring that its legacy transcends the confines of the past. Through a fusion of traditional Japanese aesthetics and Nordic design principles, K5 breathes new life into its surroundings, offering a fresh perspective on cultural exchange. Within its intimate confines, diverse commercial spaces coexist, including the world's inaugural Brooklyn Brewery flagship store, a curated book and alcohol bar, and Switch Coffee—a beloved local haunt. K5's journey, though fraught with challenges, has catalyzed growth and resilience. Emerging from the crucible of adversity, it stands poised to welcome a global audience, beckoning travelers to partake in its narrative—a convergence of time, place, and generation.
people
Those Who Harmonize with the Essence of the Region and Engage with the Pulse of the City
K5 is envisioned not just as a lodging for travelers but as a catalyst for urban revitalization extending into the fabric of Kabuto-cho. Spearheaded by Heiwa Real Estate, a development firm rooted in Nihonbashi, the project is driven by the belief that individual energies converge to cultivate a vibrant cultural tapestry. By curating a diverse array of tenants with strong independent and cultural identities, the aim is to foster a dynamic communal space imbued with the unique narrative of Kabuto-cho's storied past as an economic hub.
In this endeavor, collaboration with young hotel planning, management, and marketing firms who share a common vision for regional rejuvenation has been instrumental. Led by Takahiro Honma, one of the founders of Ferment Inc. and former CEO of Backpacker's Japan, the overarching concept was developed by his experience transforming local warehouses into youth hostel projects. The goal remains to facilitate deeper connections between travelers and the region. Additionally, Media Surf and Staple have taken charge of operations, with Akahiro Matsui, co-founder of Media Surf, renowned for his initiatives to revitalize local economies and enhance quality of life. Together, they are attracting distinctive tenants and cultivating brand value from an urban planning perspective, in partnership with Heiwa Real Estate. A notable departure from conventional hotels, K5 Lounge exemplifies this commitment to city interaction and regional integration, offering a welcoming space where guests can savor bread or coffee sourced from nearby establishments. Thus, K5 embodies a novel approach, actively engaging with the urban milieu and embracing symbiosis with the region, setting it apart from traditional hospitality establishments.
In this endeavor, collaboration with young hotel planning, management, and marketing firms who share a common vision for regional rejuvenation has been instrumental. Led by Takahiro Honma, one of the founders of Ferment Inc. and former CEO of Backpacker's Japan, the overarching concept was developed by his experience transforming local warehouses into youth hostel projects. The goal remains to facilitate deeper connections between travelers and the region. Additionally, Media Surf and Staple have taken charge of operations, with Akahiro Matsui, co-founder of Media Surf, renowned for his initiatives to revitalize local economies and enhance quality of life. Together, they are attracting distinctive tenants and cultivating brand value from an urban planning perspective, in partnership with Heiwa Real Estate. A notable departure from conventional hotels, K5 Lounge exemplifies this commitment to city interaction and regional integration, offering a welcoming space where guests can savor bread or coffee sourced from nearby establishments. Thus, K5 embodies a novel approach, actively engaging with the urban milieu and embracing symbiosis with the region, setting it apart from traditional hospitality establishments.
location
Japan's Wall Street, Now Reinvigorates Its Historical Splendor in the Present Day
Once hailed as Japan's Wall Street, Nihonbashi Kabuto-cho has long been home to numerous securities firms, revolving around the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Despite its storied past, the area witnessed a gradual decline following the advent of computerized securities trading in 1999, leading to the relocation of foreign banks and companies to burgeoning districts like Roppongi. In response to this waning vitality, development firm Heiwa Real Estate embarked on a bold regeneration project to reignite the region's flame of prosperity. Their attention turned to the historic "Kabuto-cho 5th Peace Building," once an annex of Jeil Bank, Japan's pioneering financial institution. With over a century of history, this venerable edifice has undergone a remarkable transformation, reborn as K5, poised to redefine Kabuto-cho's skyline as a modern landmark.
Situated within a 20-minute stroll from Tokyo Station, Kabuto-cho, home to K5, may have lost some of its former economic vigor. However, the district is experiencing a resurgence, with a vibrant array of unique commercial spaces breathing new life into its streets. Trendy bistros and wine shops coexist harmoniously alongside traditional paper stores dating back to the Edo period, creating an eclectic tapestry of old and new. Amidst this dynamic landscape stands Fukutoku Shrine, an ancient sanctuary steeped in over a millennium of history, offering a serene contrast to the bustling commercial thoroughfares. Meanwhile, the annual Nihonbashi-Kyobashi Festival, held every October, commemorates the legacy of the Nihonbashi Expressway, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of local culture and tradition.
Situated within a 20-minute stroll from Tokyo Station, Kabuto-cho, home to K5, may have lost some of its former economic vigor. However, the district is experiencing a resurgence, with a vibrant array of unique commercial spaces breathing new life into its streets. Trendy bistros and wine shops coexist harmoniously alongside traditional paper stores dating back to the Edo period, creating an eclectic tapestry of old and new. Amidst this dynamic landscape stands Fukutoku Shrine, an ancient sanctuary steeped in over a millennium of history, offering a serene contrast to the bustling commercial thoroughfares. Meanwhile, the annual Nihonbashi-Kyobashi Festival, held every October, commemorates the legacy of the Nihonbashi Expressway, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of local culture and tradition.
MAKING STORY
Much like K5, which pioneers the future of its region through contemporary heritage, positioning itself as a conduit between diverse histories and cultures, its spatial design seamlessly integrates modern elements with global cultural influences rooted in Japanese traditions. Overseen by CKR (Claesson Koivisto Rune) based in Stockholm, Sweden, the renovation project uniquely expresses Japanese aesthetics from a global standpoint, honoring Japanese tradition and lifestyle. Despite hailing from Sweden, CKR imbues the essence of Japanese "wah(和)" elements, merging Nordic sensibility with the profound style of the building to create a distinctive identity. This fusion gives rise to the Japandi style, a burgeoning trend that melds Japan's clean, minimalist design with Scandinavia's naturalistic aesthetic. Two contemporary styles, each embracing handcrafted values and a natural, rugged ethos, converge to form a space that transcends generational boundaries.
The design ethos extends to considerations of locality and sustainability. While preserving the building's century-old facade, the interior undergoes a stylish reinterpretation, retaining concrete frames and flooring to maintain historical integrity. Collaborations with local craftsmen enrich K5's significance, as furniture and lighting are meticulously crafted based on traditional techniques. Central to the design concept is "Aimai (曖昧)," meaning "ambiguous," whereby CKR blurs structural boundaries to create a sense of fluidity and interconnectedness. While distinct spaces such as restaurants, cafes, shops, and bars occupy the ground floor, they seamlessly flow into one another. Similarly, room divisions eschew solid walls in favor of canopy curtains and shelves, fostering a sense of connectivity and division. This design philosophy encapsulates K5's vision of intersecting timelines and harmonizing generations, inviting occupants to traverse a space that gracefully transcends temporal and societal barriers.
The design ethos extends to considerations of locality and sustainability. While preserving the building's century-old facade, the interior undergoes a stylish reinterpretation, retaining concrete frames and flooring to maintain historical integrity. Collaborations with local craftsmen enrich K5's significance, as furniture and lighting are meticulously crafted based on traditional techniques. Central to the design concept is "Aimai (曖昧)," meaning "ambiguous," whereby CKR blurs structural boundaries to create a sense of fluidity and interconnectedness. While distinct spaces such as restaurants, cafes, shops, and bars occupy the ground floor, they seamlessly flow into one another. Similarly, room divisions eschew solid walls in favor of canopy curtains and shelves, fostering a sense of connectivity and division. This design philosophy encapsulates K5's vision of intersecting timelines and harmonizing generations, inviting occupants to traverse a space that gracefully transcends temporal and societal barriers.
SPACE
A Culturally Rich Oasis Rooted in History
Meandering down a tranquil street, one navigates past towering expressways and aging office buildings. Amidst this urban tableau, the K5 emerges, its façade adorned with the stately columns of a bygone bank building, exuding an aura of relaxed sophistication. Stepping inside, guests are greeted by an eclectic array of brands occupying various nooks and crannies—a testament to the hotel's multifaceted identity. While boasting a modest 20 rooms, its communal spaces offer a surprising diversity. From upscale restaurants and bars to flower shops and cafes, the hotel serves as a vibrant hub of cultural exchange. Ascending to the upper floors, guests are transported to a different realm. Unlike the bustling activity of the ground floor and basement, where vitality abounds, the hallways on the upper levels exude serene tranquility, illuminated by the soft glow of sunlight filtering through stained glass windows. Time seems to stand still as one navigates these corridors, each step revealing traces of the building's storied past. Entering one's guest room, the atmosphere shifts yet again. Here, the remnants of the old bank building intermingle seamlessly with antique furnishings, evoking a sense of timeless elegance. A striking blue canopy curtain cascades gracefully from the lofty ceiling, framing the space with an air of refinement. Rich, dark wood furniture, unique sofas, and verdant foliage create a sumptuous ambiance, while curated books and music invite guests to immerse themselves fully in the tranquility of their surroundings.
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INTERVIEW
Interview with K5 General Manager Kanako Watanabe
stayfolio
HOTEL K5
What Does the Hotel Name 'K5' Signify?
The origins of the name 'K5' stem from the building's rich history. Erected a century ago as an annex to the First National Bank (now Mizuho Bank), it served as both a data storage facility and a guest house. Originally dubbed the 'Kabuto-cho Fifth Heiwa Building,' 'K5' was derived from the 'K' in Kabuto-cho and the numeral 5 denoting its status as the fifth Heiwa Building in the district.
What's currently underway?
Our current focus revolves around the challenge of enhancing and preserving the enduring value of this building for the next century. As we celebrate its opening, we contemplate not only the hotel's operational aspects but also its role as a cutting-edge boutique design hotel. In Japan, the market for design or boutique hotels is perceived as relatively small compared to luxury hotels. Nonetheless, we are dedicated to infusing these establishments with value and striving to earn the affection of our patrons. We believe that within this building lies the essence of Japanese culture and the aspirations of those who sought to bridge generations. It is our paramount duty to convey this spirit to guests from across the globe, whether through our design ethos or the hospitality extended by our team.
What's the collective vision of the team?
Navigating hotel management, particularly at the frontline, is a demanding task, requiring steadfast dedication for the long haul. As I diligently tended to daily tasks like making beds and managing the reception, I harbored the hope that my team would grasp the significance of our presence here and hold it close. From the inception of this venture, our overarching mission has been to Revitalize The City, a vision that resonates deeply with the entire team. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 crisis, our resolve to persevere and pass down this legacy to the next generation has only grown stronger, affirming our commitment to taking each day as it comes.
Please provide insights into the interior design of the establishment.
Eichi Shibusawa , the founders of the bank, hailed from a lineage deeply rooted in silkworm cultivation. Notably, Eichi introduced indigo dyeing to Nihonbashi, a tradition reflected in the curtains adorned with this rich hue. Furthermore, the striking red carpet intricately weaves Japanese tatami motifs, showcasing a collaborative effort with Swedish artisans who masterfully blend traditional tatami structures with Western materials.
On the second and third floors, corridors boast elevated sides, a design choice that occasionally leads to tile breakage during building movement. Rather than replacing these tiles outright, we've embraced an innovative approach, elevating the cracks to an art form by embellishing them with gold—a technique inspired by ancient Japanese craftsmanship. To oversee such endeavors with precision, we've established a dedicated team known as "Age," committed to managing the hotel with utmost professionalism. Through the integration of diverse technologies, we endeavor to ensure the continued legacy of this building for the next century.
On the second and third floors, corridors boast elevated sides, a design choice that occasionally leads to tile breakage during building movement. Rather than replacing these tiles outright, we've embraced an innovative approach, elevating the cracks to an art form by embellishing them with gold—a technique inspired by ancient Japanese craftsmanship. To oversee such endeavors with precision, we've established a dedicated team known as "Age," committed to managing the hotel with utmost professionalism. Through the integration of diverse technologies, we endeavor to ensure the continued legacy of this building for the next century.
Could you suggest an itinerary for a two-day, one-night stay?
To begin with, I recommend taking your time to savor the interior of your room. Our hotel prioritizes simplicity by excluding unnecessary elements and focusing solely on the essentials. We aim to provide an environment that feels like an extension of your daily life, fostering a sense of relief and comfort akin to being back in your own home.
Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, Kabuto-cho offers a serene escape from the bustling city noise, allowing you to create your own tranquil space. Venture down to the first floor, where you'll find the inviting CAVEMAN main dining room, offering delectable meals in a cozy ambiance. Additionally, our bar boasts an impressive collection of high-end records and books, providing the perfect backdrop for enjoying a leisurely drink. Throughout your stay, immerse yourself in the authentic experiences offered by K5, relishing every moment at your own pace. As your trip draws to a close, I encourage you to explore the unique streets of Kabuto-cho. May you uncover new facets of yourself and gather fresh perspectives that transcend your daily routine.
Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, Kabuto-cho offers a serene escape from the bustling city noise, allowing you to create your own tranquil space. Venture down to the first floor, where you'll find the inviting CAVEMAN main dining room, offering delectable meals in a cozy ambiance. Additionally, our bar boasts an impressive collection of high-end records and books, providing the perfect backdrop for enjoying a leisurely drink. Throughout your stay, immerse yourself in the authentic experiences offered by K5, relishing every moment at your own pace. As your trip draws to a close, I encourage you to explore the unique streets of Kabuto-cho. May you uncover new facets of yourself and gather fresh perspectives that transcend your daily routine.
What's something you hope remains unchanged about the city?
I hope the vibrant chaos of the city remains untouched. It's a positive chaos, a reflection of the diverse tapestry of life here. Amidst the monotone suits and the infrastructure underpinning Japan's capitalism, there exists a colorful array of individuals like us, each contributing to the vibrant fabric of the city. This amalgamation of diversity is what makes this city truly unique. I firmly believe that the "chaos" we generate by blending individuals of various backgrounds and values in street stores illuminates the streets of Kabuto-cho, adding to its distinctive charm.
Conversely, what changes would you like to witness?
I envision the city evolving much like the formation of dots and lines, where individual establishments serve as dots, these dots align to create lines, and the lines intertwine to form a cohesive fabric. Similarly, I aspire to facilitate the connection of newly emerging locales, gradually weaving them into a unified tapestry.
Moreover, I envision K5 functioning as a central hub of information within the city. Beyond serving as a mere hotel, I hope to offer insights and guidance to those seeking to explore the neighborhood. Whether it's sharing details about upcoming events or highlighting intriguing local spots, I aim for K5 to stand as a beacon of urban regeneration, actively contributing to the growth and vitality of the community.
Moreover, I envision K5 functioning as a central hub of information within the city. Beyond serving as a mere hotel, I hope to offer insights and guidance to those seeking to explore the neighborhood. Whether it's sharing details about upcoming events or highlighting intriguing local spots, I aim for K5 to stand as a beacon of urban regeneration, actively contributing to the growth and vitality of the community.
Please share any forthcoming plans or aspirations you may have.
In my view, the emphasis on 'people' will continue to grow in significance. While there are numerous remarkable hotels worldwide, I firmly believe that people should be at the heart of any design consideration. I envision our staff who welcomed guests on their initial visit remaining with us for years to come, becoming an integral part of our establishment and contributing to the fabric of the city. Creating an environment conducive to long-term employment for our hotel employees will thus be pivotal in shaping the future of hotel culture.
Additionally, I advocate for our employees to engage in active communication and collaborate with managers who prioritize social impact alongside profitability. I encourage our team members to express their aspirations freely, fostering an environment where they feel empowered to say, "I want to create something like this." These collaborative efforts are essential in building cohesive teams. Looking ahead, I anticipate that our establishment may serve as a model case in the years to come, potentially expanding into new cities. I envision our staff and hotel employees, akin to small-scale entertainers, emerging as key figures in revitalizing communities and embracing global challenges. Furthermore, I hope that the Kabuto-cho region will garner recognition as a new epicenter of Japan, serving as a platform to showcase the beauty and innovation of Tokyo and Japanese culture to the world.
Additionally, I advocate for our employees to engage in active communication and collaborate with managers who prioritize social impact alongside profitability. I encourage our team members to express their aspirations freely, fostering an environment where they feel empowered to say, "I want to create something like this." These collaborative efforts are essential in building cohesive teams. Looking ahead, I anticipate that our establishment may serve as a model case in the years to come, potentially expanding into new cities. I envision our staff and hotel employees, akin to small-scale entertainers, emerging as key figures in revitalizing communities and embracing global challenges. Furthermore, I hope that the Kabuto-cho region will garner recognition as a new epicenter of Japan, serving as a platform to showcase the beauty and innovation of Tokyo and Japanese culture to the world.
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Local Restaurant
B
Introducing the inaugural Brooklyn Brewery venue beyond the borders of the United States. Renowned as the world's premier Brooklyn Brewery flagship store, this unique establishment offers an exclusive selection of beer offerings and events found nowhere else. On Fridays and Saturdays, guests can groove to the beats of DJs while indulging in a diverse range of branded brews in the expansive setting spanning the concrete deck.
STAY’s recommended
Local Cafe
SWITCH COFFEE
The latest addition to Kabuto-cho's dining scene, following successful ventures in Meguro and Yoyogi Hachiman, presents a diverse array of specialty coffees. From rich espresso to creamy café lattes and single-origin drip brews, patrons can enjoy a wide range of coffee options. Despite its indoor location, the establishment boasts a garden-like ambiance, achieved by blending lush greenery with accents of blue through materials such as fabric and glass.
STAY
K5 Enjoyed a 2-day, 1-Night Stay in Tokyo
K5 exemplifies the transformative potential of space—a welcoming environment where individuals of all ages can freely enjoy and exchange experiences. Its significance is underscored by its unique setting within a century-old bank building, now repurposed as a hotel. Here, locals and travelers alike converge to engage with one another, fostering connections and embracing the continuum of time. K5 serves as a beacon of inspiration, reminding visitors to cherish the past while crafting their own stories for the future.
4 POINT OF VIEW
ORIGINALITY
Breathing New Life into a Century-Old Bank Building
With a century of history behind it, the old bank building has been revitalized with a vision to carry forward its modern legacy into the future. It's remarkable to see the city not only repurposing its retained resources but also branding the hotel from its very foundation in pursuit of its distinctive value.
DESIGN
Forging a Fresh Culture Rooted in History
Rather than consigning past history to oblivion, earnest endeavors are undertaken to reinterpret and nurture it from a contemporary perspective, transmitting it as a legacy for the future. Collaborating with Swedish artisans, the traditional cultural style of the country was reimagined, and the potential of space was expansively explored, drawing upon the principles of "Wa(和)," signifying harmony, and "Aimai(曖昧)," meaning ambiguity. Moreover, careful attention was given to the branding of the space, ensuring that the younger generation of today can naturally embrace the historical significance of the old space that once epitomized bygone prosperity.
Hospitality
A Sustainable Approach to Operations in Harmony with the Community
At K5, the focus extends beyond mere hotel management benefits. Prioritizing the integration of local establishments and fostering diverse guest experiences, the hotel operates with a commitment to coexistence with the surrounding neighborhood. Embracing a holistic approach, K5 endeavors to establish a symbiotic relationship with local residents, fostering collaboration in program planning and the promotion of the area's captivating culture to visitors. Through this interconnected approach, a virtuous cycle is nurtured, enriching the community and enhancing the overall guest experience at the hotel.
PRICE
An Immersive Multifaceted Journey
With every shift of your gaze, a vibrant tapestry unfolds before you. Time-honored spaces are meticulously refined, their intrinsic value amplified, and at times, reimagined in an eclectic fusion to evoke a sensorial allure. The presence of diverse brands and experiential programs available at the hotel enriches guests' stays, fostering a multifaceted encounter. Simply by residing within these walls, guests embark on a three-dimensional odyssey, transcending temporal confines to embrace the essence of yesteryears, today, and the promise of tomorrow within the region.
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- Stay Name
- HOTEL K5
- Stay Type
- Hotel
- Contact information
- Address
- 3-5 Nihonbashi Kabuto-cho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0026
- Guests / No. of Room
- 1~2 / 7
- Price
- US$ 340.28 ~ US$ 1,623.1
- Check-in / out
- 15:00 / 12:00
- Feature
PHOTO BY © K5 | WRITTEN BY Eunji Shin | INTERVIEW HyunsoonPARK / LaundryRice |